Phantom Hydrangea Tree

Botanical Name: Hydrangea paniculata ‘Phantom’ (standard form)

Common Name: Phantom Hydrangea Tree

Mature Height and Width:
8–10' tall × 6–8' wide (canopy dimension on grafted standard)

Growth Habit: Tree-form hydrangea trained to a single clear trunk. Broadly rounded to slightly irregular canopy with strong upright stems supporting large panicles. Vigorous growth rate with substantial stem thickness compared to smaller cultivars.

Foliage Description: Medium to dark green ovate leaves with serrated margins. Larger leaf size than dwarf selections. Moderate canopy density with visible branching beneath bloom clusters.

Flower Description: Very large, dense conical panicles emerging creamy white, often aging to soft blush pink late in season. Panicles thicker and fuller than ‘Limelight,’ with broader base and heavier flower mass.

Bloom Time: Mid-summer through early fall.

Fall Color: Panicles age to pale pink; foliage yellow-brown before leaf drop.

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; strongest stems and largest panicles in full sun.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 3–8 (reliable in Northeast Zones 5–7).

Notable Landscape Uses: Foundation focal point; lawn specimen; patio accent; formal garden element; large late-season flowering feature.

Deer Resistance: Moderate
Flower buds and new growth may be browsed in Northeast Zones 5–7.